Overview
On April 24, 2023, at 1030 eastern daylight time, an experimental amateur-built Thatcher CX4 sustained substantial damage during a forced landing near West Palm Beach, Florida. The pilot reported serious injuries. The aircraft was operating as a personal flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.
Flight Details
The flight originated from Valdosta, Georgia (VLD), with the intended destination of Palm Beach County Park, Florida (LNA). The pilot planned a fuel stop at Marion County Airport, Florida (X35), where he stated the airplane was “topped off” with fuel before continuing with 12 gallons onboard. Departure from X35 occurred around 0811. The route included an overflight of Sebring Regional Airport (SEF) in Sebring, Florida. During the final descent to LNA, the engine lost power, prompting the pilot to execute a forced landing on a golf course. During the landing, the aircraft struck several palm trees.
Investigation Findings
The pilot did not provide requested maintenance or fueling records, so the fuel state at departure could not be independently confirmed. No fueling information from X35 was available for review. A postaccident examination of the airframe and the automotive conversion engine revealed valvetrain and ignition continuity. No flight control anomalies were found that would have prevented normal operation. Examination of the fuel tank showed it was void of fuel; the tank was not breached, and less than 8 ounces of fuel were drained from the fuel system. The engine was separated from the firewall, but no signs of fuel spillage were observed around the airplane during the on-scene examination.